Breast Lift

Over time, the effects of aging and childbirth can cause breasts to become deflated and saggy. Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, can return your breasts to a more youthful position on the chest wall and reposition your areolas higher on your breasts. The end result is a perkier, lifted look and improved breast support.

The Procedure for a Breast Lift in Houston TX

Before your breast lift in Houston, Dr. Norris will evaluate the degree of ptosis, or sagging, in your breasts and explain the type of breast lift incisions needed to provide you with the cosmetic result you desire. He will also talk with you about the possibility of adding breast implants during your breast lift procedure if you also wish to add volume to your chest.

Once your surgical plan is in place, Dr. Norris will provide you with instructions to prepare for your breast lift, which will involve avoiding certain medications, tobacco products and alcohol for a period of time prior to your surgery. You may also need to undergo a mammogram, lab work and an EKG before breast surgery.

General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation may be used during the procedure, and incisions will be made in one of the following three patterns depending on your degree of sagging:

Crescent – around half of each areola

Periareolar – around each areola

Lollipop – around each areola and vertically along the bottom of each breast

Anchor or Inverted-T – around each areola, vertically along the bottom of each breast and horizontally along each breast fold

Recovering From a Breast Lift in Houston

Because breast lift surgery involves only skin removal and does not affect the chest muscles, the recovery period is typically brief and only mildly uncomfortable. Most patients return to work within 3-5 days and may resume exercise within 2-3 weeks.

If breast lift is performed in combination with breast augmentation, the recovery period may be prolonged and involve more post-operative discomfort and restrictions.

As your breasts heal following breast lift surgery, it is important to protect incisions from sun exposure to decrease the possibility of darkening your scars. Scars will fade over time and your final results will become visible within a few months of surgery.

Am I a good candidate for breast lift surgery?

Women elect breast surgery for a variety of reasons. Significant weight loss, pregnancy and aging can all have a significant impact on the overall elasticity and firmness of the breast. An ideal candidate for breast lift surgery will be both physically and emotionally healthy. Ideal candidates will also possess realistic expectations and a full understanding of the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Will I experience significant pain following surgery?

Following breast lift surgery, you should expect to experience moderate discomfort. The pain should begin to subside within a few days. Pain medication may be prescribed to help ease any discomfort you may experience.

Will the results after surgery be permanent?

There is no way to permanently combat the effects of aging and gravity. In most cases, the breast tissue will eventually sag again after several years. It is possible to slow this process down by wearing a high quality bra, refraining from smoking and implementing a healthy eating plan.

Will there be any significant scarring?

The amount of visible scarring largely depends upon where the incisions are made and the amount of lifting required. Minimal lifts will have less visible scarring. Scars will fade with time and there are surgical and non-surgical methods which can be utilized to reduce scarring.

What are some of the risks associated with breast lift surgery?

All surgeries present some degree of risk. For this reason, it is important for you to weigh the risks and benefits of breast lift surgery with your surgeon. Complications associated with breast lift surgery are rare, but may include infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, scarring or a loss of sensitivity in the breasts.

Do you have questions about a breast lift in Houston? Contact our office in Houston to inquire about this procedure or schedule a consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Morgan Norris.